Kang Ha-neul Discusses the Challenges of Playing Teen and Adult Roles in 'First Ride'

Kang Ha-neul shares insights into portraying both teenage and adult roles in 'First Ride'.

On the 22nd, a press screening for the movie 'First Ride' was held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. The event was attended by director Nam Dae-jung and actors Kang Ha-neul, Kim Young-kwang, Kang Young-seok, and Han Sun-hwa.

'First Ride' is a comedy about friends of 24 years embarking on their first overseas trip. Kang Ha-neul plays Tae-jung, a legislative aide who once scored perfect marks on the college entrance exam.

Reuniting with director Nam Dae-jung after their previous collaboration on '30 Days', Kang Ha-neul expressed, "Working with the director is always enjoyable. The set is fun in many ways. There are many humorous moments, and I can express my opinions clearly and enjoy the process of coordination. The joy comes from effective communication. While the script is strong, I believe this is the director's greatest strength. I was very excited when I heard we would be working together again."

At 35 years old, Kang Ha-neul had to portray a student. He shared, "I made efforts to act as a teenager. I wore makeup when in school uniform, but from the middle of the film, when portraying my 30s, I went without makeup. This was intentional. I think my skin looked better as a teenager, and I wanted to show a more worn-out appearance in the present. That's how I differentiated the roles."

'First Ride' is set to be released on the 29th.

Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr